Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs issued this statement following Val Demings’ surprise announcement that she would no longer be contesting the race:
“While I was looking forward to publicly discussing my record and the issues facing Orange County with her, I respect Val Demings’ decision to drop out of the race and I wish her the best in her future endeavors.
“However, this election is not over.  Notwithstanding Ms. Deming’s announcement, my campaign will continue to move forward full steam ahead, focused on the issues that are important for Orange County.  It is invigorating to be on the campaign trail discussing the issues with our citizens and voters.  We’ve made great progress in the last three years, and look forward to continuing that good work.  I strongly encourage everyone to cast their ballot on August 26th.
“In the meantime, I would like to express my gratitude for the many volunteers and supporters who have been with me throughout this campaign. Our success so far would not be possible without the support of every single member of Team Jacobs.
“I am also deeply appreciative of the tremendous depth and breadth of support I have received throughout Orange County. Â With that support, we will continue the great work we have been doing to keep Orange County going in the right direction.”
The Orange County Democratic Party, responding to Demings’ abrupt announcement said, they also respected her decision and “trust[ed] that it was the right one.”
It is unclear whether another candidate will be named to replace Demings, whom the party described as a “rock star …destined to do great things for the people of Florida.”
